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Hainan, China's southernmost province, has a population of over 10 million and spans 35,400 square kilometers. Once a remote and underdeveloped island, it has been transformed into a rising hub for international trade and investment. A key part of this transformation is the Hainan Free Trade Port, which has garnered global attention and has been highlighted in China's Government Work Report for seven consecutive years. By the end of 2025, Hainan plans to establish independent customs operations, a significant milestone in its development. What are these operations? How will they impact Hainan, the world, and maybe even you? What makes this beautiful island so uniquely attractive?

China's annual "Two Sessions," the biggest event on the country's political calendar, are currently underway. The term "new quality productive forces", introduced by President Xi Jinping in September 2023, is again in the spotlight. What are the new quality productive forces? As technology rapidly advances and the international landscape remains fraught with uncertainties, how will China chart its course towards modernization?

Around 5%, that's the growth target China has set for 2025, the same as last year. This was announced by Chinese Premier Li Qiang in his government work report, presented to the annual gathering of China's top legislators for deliberations. The report reviewed the government's work last year, outlined economic and social priorities, policy directions for the year ahead and actions to be taken. Why is China so confident about achieving similar levels of growth as last year? How does China plan to achieve these targets?

The "Two Sessions", considered the most important event on China's political calendar, is coming up. Delegates from across China are gearing-up to attend the annual meetings of China's top legislature, the National People's Congress, and the top political advisory body, the National Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference. Ethnic unity is always high on the agenda during the "Two Sessions". To understand how ethnic unity is promoted on the ground, CGTN host Liu Xin traveled to Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, to a city called Shihezi, where its administration has been put under U.S. sanctions for the past four and a half years.

Has China lost its allure to foreign investors? That's the picture painted by mainstream Western media reports this week. But do the numbers support this take? For instance, inbound investment in January dropped by 13% year-on-year, but jumped almost 30% from the previous month. The number of foreign companies registered in China also rose by 10% last year. What's behind these numbers? What's China doing to further boost foreign investment?

The movie Ne Zha 2 debuted in China at the end of January during the Spring Festival holiday, and quickly shattered box office records at home and abroad. Within three weeks, it had grossed nearly 13 billion yuan, or 1.8 billion US dollars, making it the world's best-selling animated film in history. It's also the only non-Hollywood film to join the all-time global box office top ten. What has made this movie such a success? Could this be a turning point for China's cultural appeal globally?

U.S. President Donald Trump declared that the arrival of DeepSeek AI should serve as a wake-up call for U.S. industries, urging the country to focus intensely on staying competitive. Is China engaged in an AI-led tech race against the U.S.? What are Trump's AI policies, and how do they differ from those of his predecessor? How can we prevent the polarization of the digital world?

Can the peoples of China and the United States increase exchanges against headwinds? There has been positive momentum over the past couple of years, but can it be sustained under President Trump? Why should Americans, who are now gripped by domestic divisions and uncertainties, care about getting to know their Chinese counterparts?

How do people in China's Taiwan region celebrate the Spring Festival? What customs do people across the Strait share? What are some of the differences? How has popular culture from both sides influenced each other over the past decades?

How do people in China's Taiwan region celebrate the Spring Festival? What customs do people across the Strait share? What are some of the differences? How has popular culture from both sides influenced each other over the past decades?

Since taking office on January 20th, Trump has adopted a rather nuanced stance on China tariffs, a contrast to his hardline trade policy during his first presidency. However, the end of the honeymoon period still looms, as the "Tariff Man" campaigned on levying high tariffs on all Chinese exports to the U.S.. Can the two sides find ways to establish a mutually beneficial trade relationship? Why has trade been resilient despite Trump's tariffs that were kept in place by Biden? Can new and bigger tariffs really make America great again?

On January 20th, Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, declaring that "the golden age of America begins right now". Han Zheng, Chinese President Xi Jinping's special representative and Vice President of China, attended the inauguration ceremony, marking the first time for a senior Chinese official to participate in a U.S. presidential inauguration. Just days before the big event, President Xi spoke with Trump on the phone at the latter's request and both leaders expressed the hope that ties would get off to a good start in Trump's new term. How will the world's two largest economies handle their relationship? How will this impact the rest of the world, particularly the Global South?

TikTok is back online, after going dark for 12 hours. It chose to shut itself down over divestment. The abrupt disappearance came just minutes before a US law banning the app took effect on Sunday, and one day before Donald Trump returns to power. But now, the app, along with its 170 million American users, about half the country's population, thanks him for restoring its operation. Days earlier, many TikTokers, who call themselves "TikTok refugees", flocked to the Chinese app RedNote, or Xiaohongshu, learning some Mandarin and Chinese dishes along the way. Can Trump save TikTok eventually? What will happen after the 90-day reprieve ends? How long will American users stay on RedNote?

Following the 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck southwest China's Xizang, the Chinese President ordered all-out rescue efforts to save lives and minimize casualties. The quake hit the remote border county of Dingri on Tuesday morning, killing 126 people so far, injuring 188 more and damaging over one thousand houses. Rescue teams were immediately mobilized in a race against time despite the high altitude, remote location and freezing temperature. What's the latest on the ground? How are disaster response teams adapting to the region's unique needs?

The World Bank raised its forecast for China's economic growth in 2024 and 2025 on Dec 26th of 2024, but cautioned against challenges such as household and business confidence, and headwinds in the property sector. China has emphasized the need to maintain steady economic growth, keep employment and prices generally stable, ensure a basic equilibrium in the balance of payments, and increase residents' income in step with economic growth. What obstacles and challenges can we expect in the new year? Where is China's economy headed?

In his 2025 New Year address, President Xi Jinping expressed his expectation for both sides of the Taiwan Strait to work together toward a shared and prosperous future. In recent years, cross-Strait relations have grown increasingly complex. To better understand the trajectory of the evolving dynamics, host Liu Xin spoke with Wu Jung-yuan, chairman of Taiwan's Labor Party, the island's prominent left-wing party. What mark has history left on him? And how does he perceive the current state of cross-Strait relations?

In recent years, developing countries have demanded a stronger voice in global governance. The BRICS mechanism has become an increasingly vital platform for fostering unity and cooperation among Global South nations. Following its expansion in early 2024, BRICS will soon include nine additional partners, including Indonesia, Belarus, Bolivia, Uganda and others. The year 2025 will also mark the 70th anniversary of the historic Bandung Conference. How has the "Bandung spirit" evolved in the Global South? How can these countries amplify their voices on the global stage? And how long before a truly multipolar world can emerge?

Harbin, China's iconic winter city, is once again turning snow into gold with its traditional Ice and Snow Festival. Harbin in Heilongjiang Province is pulling out all the stops to grow its winter economy. Other cities in Northern China have long been following suit, and even eastern and southern cities now want a piece of the action to boost tourism and consumption. How should these cities go about developing their plans, and what are the trends that people are chasing?

The Philippines' planned acquisition of the U.S. Typhon missile system has stirred up fresh tension in the South China Sea. China has slammed the move as dangerous provocation, calling it a reckless act that fuels confrontation and jeopardizes regional stability. With unilateral policies and foreign meddling meant to disrupt peace, can dialogue win over conflict?

In today's world, international disputes over maritime boundaries and territorial sovereignty remain widespread. The UN Charter encourages all member states to resolve disputes through peaceful means, such as negotiation and consultation. However, in practice, some countries often pursue unilateral maritime policies, disregarding the rights and claims of other nations, undermining regional maritime cooperation and stability. Why do these countries resort to unilateralism instead of dialogue? What impacts does a confrontational approach have on the resolution of maritime disputes?

"One Country, Two Systems is a good policy that must be upheld for a long time." Chinese President Xi Jinping made the remarks in Macao while attending a ceremony to mark the 25th anniversary of the city's return to the motherland. Two days ahead of the celebration, he arrived in Macao for extensive and in-depth exchanges with locals. He praised the people of Macao for writing "a new chapter in the successful implementation of One Country, Two Systems with Macao Characteristics." What exactly is "One Country, Two Systems with Macao Characteristics"? Has it benefited Macao people over the past 25 years?

As cities around the world continue to grow and become more densely populated, government hotlines for reporting public concerns have become crucial in effective governance. In 2019, Beijing implemented the 12345 hotline, merging 64 previous hotlines into a single channel, and so far, people have been giving it a thumbs-up with a 97% satisfaction rate. So how does the service work? How does it compare with other similar hotlines in mega cities around the world? How do hotlines like this contribute to the development and modernization of China's major urban centers?

China's economy is set for a major shake-up in 2025. China stressed plans to boost growth in a high-level economic planning meeting that wrapped up last Thursday. The annual meeting noted that the Chinese economy has posted generally stable performance while making progress in 2024, but also recognized the need to face up to the difficulties. For next year, the meeting called for a proactive fiscal policy and affirmed plans to moderately loosen monetary policy. Why has China decided to ramp up policy stimulus? What obstacles and challenges can we expect? What signals does this send and where is China's economy headed in 2025?

Over the past two days, China's top leadership gathered in Beijing to review this year's economic performance and set out tasks for next year. During the much-anticipated annual Central Economic Work Conference, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced vigorous efforts to boost consumption, improve investment efficiency, and expand domestic demand on all fronts. He called for more proactive and impactful macro policies to sustain the upward trend of the economy. What's the situation of China's domestic demand and consumption? How does it compare to other countries?

For decades, some Western media outlets have predicted the collapse of the Chinese economy, pointing to slowing growth, challenges in the real estate sector, and rising debt. Yet, despite these claims, China has remained the engine of global growth, moving to become the world's second-largest economy. Is the so-called "China collapse theory" based on facts, or is it driven by interests and cognitive dissonance about China's unique development model? How has China's economic transformation impacted traditional economic narratives and how can China continue to drive growth in the years ahead?

In a white paper released in late November, China revealed how far it has come in rural road construction, ten years after President Xi Jinping set out the task. Why is China so committed to paving roads in its rural areas? How did China pull off such a mammoth project? Can its experience be replicated elsewhere?

Incoming U.S. President Donald Trump has vowed to impose massive tariff hikes on goods coming from Mexico, Canada and China on his very first day in office. With less than 50 days until President Trump returns to the White House, what's in store for the future of China-U.S. relations?

National parks connect us with nature. Douglas Morris, Board Chair of Global Parks, has travelled to China frequently, being involved with China's ambitious national parks project. He brings his personal stories about the collaboration between Americans and their Chinese counterparts on how to build national parks with their respective national characters.

2024 is on track to become the warmest year on record, according to the World Meteorological Organization. Extreme weather events could impose staggering costs on society, not to mention the environment. Besides the various efforts to mitigate global warming, what else needs to be done? How can low-income countries adapt to climate change for which they are not even primarily responsible?

From Anchorage to San Francisco to Lima, the two sides have come a long way. Over the weekend, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden in Lima on the sidelines of APEC meetings in Peru. Both sides hailed the past four years of engagement. How have bilateral ties evolved over the past few years, especially since the frosty meeting in Anchorage? How did things stabilize? Did China use the Lima meeting to send a message to President-elect Donald Trump?

China and Peru have agreed to deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership. This is the central message of a joint statement just released by the presidents of the two countries. What message did China send to the people in Peru and beyond? Does that message come with actions? Amid the global uncertainties, how important is China's consistency in its Asia-Pacific policy?

The 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting will be held on November 15th and 16th in Peru. Leaders and senior officials from 21 member economies will meet in its capital Lima. Founded 35 years ago after the end of the Cold War, the group of 21 Asia-Pacific economies now accounts for 60 percent of the world's economic output and half of world trade. The region has always been an engine of global economic growth and driver of free trade. But what lies ahead with the election of Donald Trump? What will be China's message at this year's APEC meeting? What are the goals and missions of other members?

In this early November, esteemed scholars and experts in classical civilization have gathered at Yanqi Lake Convention & Exhibition Center in Beijing to celebrate the inaugural World Conference of Classics and to trace the origins of human thought and extract wisdom from human history. Why do we need to study the classics today? How can classical knowledge help solve contemporary global issues? And how can the East and West learn from each other's classical traditions?

How can Global South countries support each other so the group can become stronger as a critical mass in realizing a multipolar world?

As Americans decide who will be their next president, China, like many others around the world, is watching the results closely, trying to gauge the impacts from either a Trump or Harris presidency when the dust settles. What will be some key differences between their trade policies in regards to China? Which would impact China more, both in the short-term and in the long-run? Or will it make any real difference?

Protectionism disguised as "fair trade". That's how China calls the European Commission's decision on Oct. 30 to impose additional tariffs as high as 35.3% against Chinese-made EVs. The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU also expressed profound disappointment in the decision, viewing it as arbitrary, while German carmakers have called it "a step backwards for free global trade and thus for prosperity, job preservation and growth in Europe". Will this help save the European car industry? How will China respond? How will it impact bilateral trade and relations?

Even in our world today, one in ten people globally and as many as one in five in Africa still face hunger. A report by the International Fund for Agricultural Development and four other UN bodies revealed that last year, an estimated 30% of the global population – 2.3 billion people – faced moderate or severe food insecurity. How secure or insecure is the world in terms of food? What kind of innovative efforts should be taken to leverage greater finance for food security? What actions are necessary to continue the fight against hunger and poverty?

At Thursday's BRICS Plus leaders' dialogue in Kazan, Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted the crucial role of BRICS-Plus nations in advancing global peace, security, and growth for the Global South. The summit issued the 33-page Kazan Declaration, outlining the common stance, values and aspirations of the group. What messages can we take away from the president's speech in Kazan and the landmark Declaration? How will the BRICS grouping shape our future?

As the 16th BRICS Summit is currently taking place in Kazan, Russia, some in the West are getting nervous. It is the first summit since the group expanded earlier this year to welcome five new members. What's at the top of the summit's agenda? How will the diverse group achieve unity to deliver concrete results? Is BRICS the anti-West Leviathan it's portrayed to be?

During the past few weeks, China has announced a raft of policies to bolster the economy, as part of its sweeping efforts to deepen reform and opening up. Various government departments at the highest level have been taking bold steps to boost capital markets and shore up the real estate sector. And the markets have been very reactive. What key measures have been announced? How significant will these policies be? What do they say about the fundamentals and the direction of China's economy?

In a major address on Thursday, Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te peddled for "Taiwan independence." He said that the PRC had no right to represent Taiwan and expressed his commitment to "resist annexation or encroachment upon the island's sovereignty." Is he upping the ante before the U.S. elections? Do people in Taiwan know about his endgame and its consequences?

One year on, Israel is expanding its war against Hamas in Gaza, which has already killed some 42,000 people and wounded nearly 100,000 more. It has stepped up attacks in Lebanon and other neighboring countries, inflicting greater civilian casualties and sparking fears of a full-blown regional war with its old foe Iran. Why has this conflict escalated so quickly as it enters its second year? What might happen next? Why does the prospect of peace appear ever more elusive?

"Is China an Enemy Fabricated through Propaganda?" That's the title of a new book by Albert Ettinger, a French-speaking Luxembourgois author who has devoted decades as a historian on Xizang (Tibet), and other China related issues. His book on Xizang titled "Free Tibet? Power, Society and Ideology in Old Tibet" challenges the so-called Western experts on the issue and the politically correct narratives. Despite having been a lone voice for years, he continues to speak up and dig deeper into how Western mainstream narratives have been portraying China as the bogeyman.

Is China a terrible place to live? Nobody seems to have told those from abroad who now call it home, not to mention the millions who are flocking here to experience China for themselves. In this special edition of The Point, we tell the stories of three foreign nationals living in different parts of China. Why did they move here? What have been their experiences? How have they adapted to living and working in a place far from their home countries?

On September 23, the U.S. Commerce Department proposed banning key Chinese software and hardware in so-called connected vehicles. The proposed ban not only affects Chinese EV makers, but also forces other major automakers to remove Chinese components from vehicles before they can enter the U.S. markets. Meanwhile, a vote by the EU on whether to impose additional tariffs on Chinese EVs was postponed. Why are Chinese EVs facing so much hostility in the West? How can the disputes be resolved? Are trade wars the answer?

What does the "pomegranate" fruit evoke for you? In China, it's a metaphor that symbolizes the unity of the Chinese nation. Chinese President Xi Jinping has used this metaphor on many occasions, saying "the people of all the 56 ethnic groups remain closely united like the seeds of a pomegranate." As the country celebrates the upcoming National Day, this topic is in the spotlight again. Why does China focus so much on ethnic unity? Is it just wishful thinking or a reality on the ground? What does it mean for people outside of China?

The U.S. is expected to significantly escalate restrictions on Chinese EVs under the guise of "national security". On Monday, the Commerce Department proposed banning key Chinese software and hardware in so-called connected vehicles. The proposed ban not only affects Chinese EV makers, but also forces other major automakers to remove Chinese components from their vehicles before they can enter the U.S. Why is the U.S. effectively moving to ban Chinese components in EVs? Has the U.S. abandoned its beliefs in free trade and the free market? Is it really about "national security" or more like creeping commercial authoritarianism?

Despite the reported lack of confidence in the world's second-largest economy among some Western media, the IMF recently revised China's 2024 economic growth forecast to 5%, up 0.4 percentage points from April. The IMF noted that the revision was in part based on stronger consumption figures from the first quarter, along with stronger exports. What’s the real economic situation on the ground? Is China's economy headed in the right direction? Why should investors be optimistic about the future?

Leaders from global military and defense departments, heads of international organizations and renowned experts have gathered in Beijing for the 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum. With discussions centered around global security and defense issues, the evolving nature of U.S.-China relations was a key focus. Where is the relationship heading? What can be done to make sure things don't spiral out of control?

China's growing cooperation with other Global South countries is making some in the West pretty nervous. Are we witnessing the emergence of a multipolar world order? As we delve deep into the historical ties that have seen China and other developing countries stand shoulder-to-shoulder against colonialism, how do these deepening partnerships affect the international balance of power?

The first China-Latin America and Caribbean States Roundtable on Human Rights was held on Tuesday in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to expose the double standards and hypocrisy applied in human rights by some countries. The event also provided a platform for countries to share and learn from each other on protecting human rights through development. What are the experiences of Latin American and Caribbean countries in this regard? What consensus emerged from the event? And can it make a difference in people's lives?

This year's Forum on China-Africa Cooperation summit concluded in Beijing last week. The event has certainly ruffled some feathers in the West. How do the U.S.-led West and China see global dynamics differently? With the U.S. elections just months away, how might China-U.S. relations evolve? What are the top priorities for the two major economies?

Recently, China has upgraded its relationship with Nigeria to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This special program, jointly produced by China Global Television Network and the Nigerian Television Authority, dives deep into this dynamic relationship and takes a look at the progress, drivers, impacts, and the potential for the future from both Chinese and Nigerian perspectives.

The 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, or FOCAC, is coming up. What is to be expected from the summit? Which areas are participants most excited about? And how might the summit further strengthen the bond between African nations and China?

On Thursday, China released its first white paper mapping the country's energy transition over the past ten years. The paper shows that China's energy intensity decreased steadily, reducing CO2 emissions by three billion tons. Last year, China invested 676 billion USD in the energy transition, the largest in the world, and more than the U.S. and the EU combined. What exactly are the numbers telling us? What's driving this revolution? And what impact is this having on the world?

For the first time in 8 years, the U.S. President's point man on national security is in China. The visit is Sullivan's first to China in his current capacity. What does the visit tell us about the current state of China-U.S. relations? Is the world's most important bilateral relationship showing signs of improving stability? With U.S. elections just months away, how useful will this mechanism be?

As the world goes through rapid changes, China and African countries are coming closer together. The 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, or FOCAC, is to be held in Beijing from September 4 to 6. What's to be expected from the summit? Where are the two sides headed next? And in the context of the profound changes currently taking place in the world, what can China and African countries do together for each other and for the world?

Despite the calls for "decoupling" and "de-risking," global direct investment in China has kept growing, with figures from some European and Middle Eastern countries soaring to record highs. Why are investors betting so big on China? Why are European companies ignoring their politicians' call for "de-risking"? And what does the Middle-East's pivot to China say about the rapidly changing international landscape?

Vietnam's top leader, To Lam, is in China for a three-day state visit, his first trip abroad since becoming General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee earlier this month. Starting in Guangzhou, he visited landmarks linked to late Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh and emphasized that China remains Vietnam's "top priority" in its foreign policy. The visit, at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlights the importance both nations place on the relationship. What outcomes can be expected from this visit, and how will China and Vietnam accelerate their "train of traditional friendship"?

From August 12th to 14th, former Japanese defense minister Shigeru Ishiba led a cross-party parliamentarian delegation to China's Taiwan region. The visit sparked serious protests from China. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned Japanese politicians "not to forget the lessons of history" and to stop sending the wrong signals to separatists. The visit came against a rising tide of high-level interactions between Japan and the Taiwan region in recent months, reneging on Japan's repeated commitments not to have official relations with the region. What are they up to? Why such timing? Is this the shape of things to come?

The Paris Olympics came to a close on August 11. China tied with the U.S. for the most gold medals, at 40, marking its best ever performance in overseas Olympic Games. This year's games have seen breakthroughs that may inspire greater public enthusiasm in sports. How will the Paris Olympics go down in history? What are the most memorable moments of the Games for China? What to expect for the future in the world of sports?

US athletes who were caught doping have been allowed to compete for years in exchange for ratting on others? That's the latest revelation following media reports, bringing the dispute between U.S. and international anti-doping agencies to a higher level. What are the details?

France has claimed a stunning array of medals, while China's Deng Yawen made waves with her groundbreaking gold in Freestyle BMX, marking the nation's first win in this event and signaling a new chapter for Chinese cycling. What moments can truly define these Games, and what do they mean for the future of cycling worldwide? And faced with accusations that the World Anti-Doping Agency is not doing its job, especially when it comes to Chinese players, what does the WADA say? David Lappartient, President of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) and the French National Olympic and Sports Committee, also a WADA Foundation Board member, shares his view.

On July 31st, Chinese swimming prodigy Pan Zhanle won gold and broke world record in men's 100-meter freestyle swimming, clocking a time of 46.40 seconds. While the world was still trying to make sense of this seemingly "impossible" feat, just four days later, Pan did it again, this time in men's 4*100 medley relay, clocking 45.92 seconds for the same distance. The splashes sent waves of public euphoria across China, but also prompted the big question: how did he do it? From an emerging swimmer who first caught the world's attention during Hangzhou Asian Games last year, to international stardom, what explains this phenomenally rapid rise?

Since January, more than a million people from the island of Taiwan have traveled to the mainland for tourism. The number of visits for all of last year was under two million, so the rate so far this year marks a significant increase. Why are so many Taiwan residents coming to the mainland? CGTN host Liu Xin spoke with two young people from Taiwan at a recent cross-Strait youth development forum.

Does China keep opening its doors further, or closing them? What does the resolution adopted at the 3rd plenum of the 20th CPC Central Committee say about it? Host Liu Xin sits down with Jeffrey Sachs, director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University and president of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network. And, a U.S. business delegation visits China right after the same meeting. We have an exclusive interview with Roberta Lipson, founder and vice chair of United Family Healthcare and a member of the delegation.

According to a major meeting on deepening reforms concluded days ago, China will improve the institutions and mechanisms for fostering "new quality productive forces" and apply digital technology to promote its digital economy. What exactly are these reforms regarding new quality productive forces? What role does it play in China's high-quality development? What can other countries take away from China's methodology?

Ukraine's foreign minister arrived in China on July 23rd to begin a four-day visit. Dmytro Kuleba met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Guangzhou on Wednesday. During the meeting, Kuleba said Ukraine highly appreciates China's positive and constructive role in promoting peace and maintaining international order. Wang said China and Ukraine are friends. What did the two sides talk about? What possible role could China play to help make peace in Ukraine?

The resolution of the 3rd Plenum of the 20th CPC Central Committee on further deepening reform comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization has put opening-up as a "defining feature". Will China make it easier for foreign businesses to operate here in the country? China's foreign trade reached new heights in the first half of this year, what does it mean to the world?

A group of U.S. heavyweight executives from companies like Goldman Sachs, Starbucks, Nike, and Qualcomm are arriving in China this week. Their visit coincides with China's recent commitments to further deepen comprehensive reform and create a more transparent, stable, and predictable environment for foreign businesses, announced during the third plenum of the 20th CPC Central Committee.

A pivotal four-day meeting of the 20th CPC Central Committee concluded on Thursday with the adoption of a resolution to further deepen reform in China. The 3rd plenum, held every five years, took place this week in Beijing. The resolution outlines a comprehensive plan to deepen reforms and advance modernization.

China has made tremendous strides in protecting its marine eco-environment in a remarkably short time, according to a recent white paper. We look into how this has been made possible. And at the NATO summit in Washington last week, China was labelled as a "decisive enabler of the war in Ukraine." But who's the real enabler? Is making China the new bogeyman going to save NATO?

Eight years ago, on July 12th, 2016, a so-called arbitral tribunal housed in the Peace Palace in the Hague handed down a so-called South China Sea Arbitration award that has been hailed by the West as a victory against “China hegemony” and used as a basis to criticize China. China has never recognized the legality of this case. What was behind China's non-participation? How far back can we trace this “Let's-see-each-other-in-court” approach by Western powers?

The tenth Nishan Forum on World Civilizations kicks off in Qufu, the hometown of Confucius in East China's Shandong Province. And it comes at the right time: Chinese classics, poetry, sci-fi novels have made quite a splash abroad in recent years thanks to dedicated translators. How can Chinese literature further help East-West communication? How do the literary works reflect the evolving social fabric and its ever-increasing role on the global stage?

Join host Liu Xin on her journey in China's southeastern province of Fujian, right across the waters from Taiwan, to meet young people from the island chasing dreams in their ancestral land.

The 24th summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the world's largest regional organization, concluded in Astana, Kazakhstan, on July 4th. The 10-member state organization adopted the Astana Declaration. In the document, they underscored the SCO's role in bolstering global peace and security, and in shaping a new equitable international order. What are the key points of the declaration? What plans does the organization have for the next 10 years? And how will it affect us?

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Astana, Kazakhstan, for the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, or the SCO. This annual summit is significant and China will assume the next SCO presidency after the meeting. President Xi highlighted the 32-year diplomatic relationship between China and Kazakhstan, calling it a "unique permanent comprehensive strategic partnership." This year's summit will shape the future of Eurasian cohesion, celebrate past achievements while looking forward to deeper regional cooperation.

Biden and Trump face off in the first presidential debate of the 2024 general election. How much impact will the debate have on the race? Is it a demonstration of real democracy? And nearly 75 years since the founding of new China, how has China evolved?

By reading Western mainstream media reports, you may get the impression that Muslims in Xinjiang are oppressed and struggling. But if one presents the region in a positive light showing the realities, one is likely to be called a brain-washed propagandist for the Chinese government and the CPC. But this has not deterred some brave and independent voices to speak out the truth about what they actually see with their own eyes on the ground. Among them is one German economist who has spent nearly 3 decades in China and has made many trips to Xinjiang since the 1990s. He made his latest trip last November. What does his experience say about Xinjiang and China in general?

Chinese Premier Li Qiang is paying an official visit to Malaysia as the two countries celebrate 50 years of diplomacy. What makes the neighborly friendship tick? And 2023 was officially proclaimed the hottest year on record. What has to be done to adapt to the ever-warming climate?

On Saturday June 15th, Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Australia, the second leg of a three-nation tour, which also includes New Zealand and Malaysia. His Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese said in an opinion piece on a major Australian newspaper that the visit signals "another step forward" in stabilizing bilateral relations. There's also a positive change in public perception of China in Australia albeit a slow one. Are the upward trends sustainable? Have we become wiser in managing our differences? Has Australia found a way of navigating between its security alliance with the U.S. and economic partnership with China?

Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Wellington, New Zealand on Thursday for an official visit to the country, the first leg of a three-nation tour. How have people-to-people exchanges shaped relations? We'll focus on one New Zealander's 60 year-long love affair with China. And artists from the mainland and Taiwan have recreated a Chinese opera masterpiece by a contemporary of Shakespeare. Why does "the Peony Pavilion" resonate so much with young people?

The United Nations Security Council has passed Resolution 2735, calling for a comprehensive ceasefire deal to end the war in Gaza in three phases. Could it mark a turning point in the conflict? And Narendra Modi was sworn in for a historic third consecutive term as India's prime minister on Sunday. What impact will Modi's re-election have on regional and international relations?

The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a China-tabled resolution setting June 10 every year as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. Why is setting such a day important? Will this make a tangible difference for people around the world? And how does China see its role at the UN in a century of unprecedented changes?

"Our land. Our future. We are #GenerationRestoration." This rallying cry sets the stage for this year's World Environment Day on June 5, the UN's largest platform for environmental action. Hosted by Saudi Arabia, the 2024 celebrations focus on land restoration, combating desertification, and building drought resilience. The urgency is clear: nearly two million species, including beloved otters, face extinction. Shockingly, the U.S. is the only UN member state that hasn't ratified the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity, side-lining itself from vital global discussions. Meanwhile, other nations strive to meet ambitious biodiversity targets. What role should major nations play in this effort? How can global cooperation be strengthened to protect our environment? And what must be done to save our planet's precious biodiversity?

On May 20, Lai Ching-te took office as the new leader of the Taiwan region. He gave a so-called "inauguration" speech during which he expressed explicit views on Taiwan separatism. His speech triggered strong reaction from the central government in Beijing with a spokesperson calling his stance radical. Lai called himself a "guardian of peace" for the world, as Taiwan sits on a strategic position on the so-called first island chain in the Pacific Ocean. But will his radical views contribute to peace across the Straits or the opposite? What do peace-loving people in Taiwan think of his speech?

Today, more than 180 countries, including the United States, officially recognize that there is but one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. As the international situation evolves, China-U.S. relations have experienced dramatic changes. But Taiwan stands at the heart of the matter. What's really behind the U.S. meddling in the Taiwan question?

In ancient Greece, a temple was built to pay tribute to the nine divine muses of art and science. Today we call such houses museums. As we mark the 48th International Museum Day, how can we make museums friendlier to the general public than they are now? While new technologies are transforming our lives, how can museums participate in the change? What more can museums do to bring peace to this turbulent and divided world?

A Filipino civilian convoy that calls itself Atin Ito, meaning "This is ours" in Tagalog, claims to have breached China's so-called “blockade” around the Huangyan Island in the South China Sea. The flotilla is said to have reached the shoal and resupplied Filipino fishermen operating there. But media reports suggest they stopped 50 nautical miles from Huangyan before returning. The Philippine Coast Guard and Navy watched the mission. What is it that the mission aimed to accomplish? Are the fishermen being exploited? Are there other forces behind this sudden assertiveness?

A blockade in the South China Sea? That's what the darling of the Filipino media Ray Powell says in a tweet about what China will do in Huangyan Island in the coming days. He is a former U.S. air force serviceman who now heads the Sealight Maritime Transparency Project, an organization that overtly counters China. He warned that China will blockade Filipino vessels carrying activists, foreign observers, journalists, and fishing crew to what is known in English as Scarborogh Shoal, a disputed area. What exactly is Ray Powell up to? Who's behind him?

Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to wrap up his five-day visit to France, Serbia, and Hungary, on his first official tour to Europe in five years. The three countries rolled out the red carpet to welcome their Chinese guests, stirring a China fervor among the local people and heated discussions in the media. While new opportunities are set to open up in Beijing's collaboration with these countries, skepticism lingers over EU policies on how to approach the bloc's second largest trading partner. To what extent has this trip brought clarity to the issue?

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in France, the first stop of his three-nation European tour. The trip will also take him to Serbia and Hungary, two important partners of China in Central and Eastern Europe. The visit came on the heels of a major speech by French President Emmanuel Macron on the risks facing Europe. It also coincides with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France and the 75th anniversary of China-Hungary diplomatic ties. Why these three countries? What are the risks or "mischief" that Europe should worry about? And where does China fit in?

At the Beijing auto show 2024, 278 NEV models were on display, with Chinese car makers stealing the show and foreign carmakers feeling the pinch. German, Japanese and South Korean giants are teaming up with their Chinese partners to "catch up with Chinese carmakers." How advanced is China's NEV industry? Will these partnerships with Chinese players all become grist for the mill for foreign automakers? With more trade barriers on Chinese NEVs looming, is the West shooting itself in the foot?

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz just wrapped up his 3-day visit to China. With a packed schedule, the Chancellor's delegation was nothing short of impressive with ministers of environment, agriculture and transport, and also executives from big firms including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Siemens. The trip came as Brussels announced earlier this month an inquiry into Chinese-made wind turbines on top of another investigation into Chinese made new energy vehicles since last Oct. Is Scholz trying to have his cake and eat it too, promoting German businesses in China while staying in sync with Brussels? If so, how will that work? Was this visit to China a disappointment like some are saying? Or was it the latest example of respect-based dialogues between the two economies?

This year marks the 40th anniversary of financial dialogue and cooperation between China and Germany. Over the years, 300 projects across China with some 10 billion euros of investment from Germany have been jointly implemented. As German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is visiting China, how can the two sides keep building the trust and strengthen cooperation to address new challenges facing the world today?

The United States, the UK and France came out to point fingers at China after a few recent run-ins between Chinese and Filipino vessels near the Ren'ai Jiao. But can they really defend their argument? What have their governments been saying about the subject in secret vs. in public since the beginning of the 20th century? One scholar decided to find out and spent years digging through piles of archives in the three countries. What he found really surprised him. He later put his findings in a book called The History and Sovereignty of South China Sea. What more do we know about this book?

What flows in the veins of the world's oldest continuous civilization? Today we're in the picturesque Mount Wuyi, where a 12th century scholar Zhu Xi spent 50 years and developed Neo-Confucianism. He also became known as a sage, second only to Confucius himself. His ideas have not only been absorbed by the Chinese but have also travelled to other parts of Asia. With China emphasizing a Chinese approach to modernization, it's necessary to find out more about this ancient figure and his ideas. Who is Zhu Xi and how have his ideas helped to shape the Chinese?

What flows in the veins of the world's oldest continuous civilization? Today we're in the picturesque Mount Wuyi, where a 12th century scholar Zhu Xi spent 50 years and developed Neo-Confucianism. He also became known as a sage, second only to Confucius himself. His ideas have not only been absorbed by the Chinese but have also travelled to other parts of Asia. With China emphasizing a Chinese approach to modernization, it's necessary to find out more about this ancient figure and his ideas. Who is Zhu Xi and how have his ideas helped to shape the Chinese?

Once again, some uninhabited reef in the South China Sea has come under the spotlight in the press. China is blamed for "bullying its small neighbor, encroaching on international freedom of navigation, and being unrestrained". The reef called Ren'ai Jiao is at the center of the dispute. The waters around the reef have become choppier over the past month, when skirmishes erupted frequently in its vicinities. Who is making waves in the South China Sea? What are facts and what are fallacies? Who is the agent provocateur?

From the end of March to the beginning of April, China will have received 5 successive state leaders from Global South countries, including Dominica, Nauru, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Kazakhstan. Dignitaries are warmly received by top Chinese leaders including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, and agreements have been reached to further deepen ties. What do these visits have in common and what do they mean for the wider international community?

When we talk about China, we often mention Chinese characteristics. What exactly does this term mean? What make up the Chinese characteristics? We have two international scholars join us today to share their thoughts on the concept.

China operates a democratic system that covers a population of more than 1.4 billion from 56 ethnic groups. What are the challenges? And steeped in a continuous civilization spanning thousands of years, how does Chinese culture influence its modern political system?

"You can't eat democracy," Zambia's President Hichilema put it bluntly last year. It is a stark reminder that governance isn't just about abstract ideals; it's also about putting food on the table. An international survey on democracy conducted in 30 countries found that people in developed countries have lower levels of trust in their politicians and don't believe they work in the best interests of the people: That's 29% in the U.S., 20% in the UK, 12% in Japan. But the numbers are much higher in developing countries. China, for instance, leads by a whopping 76%. This is a clear slap in the face for Western politicians who speak of democracy incessantly. We delve into how China's democracy is able to win that high-level of trust.

As the Chinese society has turned nearly cashless, newcomers may find it hard to enjoy their stay to the full, had they not prepared to adapt to the new digital scenario. To solve this problem, China has taken a series of measures including boosting the acceptance of overseas bank cards in venues where foreign visitors frequent. On March 14th, the People's Bank of China published a bilingual step-by-step guide to payment services in China. How effective have these measures been in facilitating payments for inbound travelers? What further improvements can be made?

Hong Kong is set to pass its own national security law, finally fulfilling the region's constitutional duty. Nearly 27 years after the handover, the outstanding loopholes in this regard are to be plugged with a bill called Safeguarding National Security. After a month-long public consultation period, the bill, as stipulated in Article 23 of the Basic Law of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, was introduced in the legislative council on March 8th, with majority support. It has not been passed yet, but it has come a long way. Now, on the heels of the bloody unrest that rocked the city in 2019 and 2020, the central government in Beijing enacted a National Security Law, or NSL, for the region in June of 2020. Why does the region introduce its own bill? What are the new offences that have been outlawed? And why are Western governments and mainstream media making so much noise about the bill, as they did nearly 4 years ago when the NSL was about to be introduced?

Global trade was expected to have shrunk by nearly 5% in 2023, according to a UN estimate last December. The UN report shows geopolitics as having greater impact on global trade patterns. The most vivid example is "friend-shoring," that is trading with politically aligned partners. Meanwhile, China will strengthen its major trading partner status with over 140 countries, with new energy vehicles, solar panels and lithium battery exports growing rapidly. How will these contradictory dynamics affect all of us? How can global governance on trade catch up with the ever evolving challenges?

The White House recently announced an investigation into whether Chinese EVs present "national security risks," drawing a parallel with "smartphones on wheels" that could collect sensitive U.S. data, and potentially being manipulated remotely by Beijing. The 25% tariff on Chinese-made cars, implemented by the Trump administration, persists under President Biden. Do Chinese EVs really pose a national security risk to the U.S.? With China emerging as a leading EV manufacturer and exporter, could these protection measures accelerate American carmakers' competitiveness?

Some media outlets are trying to paint a bleak picture of China's economy. However, China saw a GDP growth of 5.2% last year, hitting the government's own target. Despite facing challenges, China's economy achieved steady growth in 2023. How to evaluate China's growth last year? And how will China's economy perform in the coming years?

Exactly how much did the U.S. GDP grow last year? On January 25th, Wall Street Journal said "U.S. economy grew 3.1% last year," but on the same day, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the official agency responsible for the analysis and reporting of economic data, put the number at 2.5%. Which number shall we believe? With the U.S. media often leading the charge in highlighting worst-case scenarios for China's economy, are they doing the opposite when it comes to the U.S. economy?

Who is winning two years into the Russia-Ukraine conflict? Maybe it's neither. From the latest numbers, the winning party seems to be big U.S. corporations. A fact sheet released last month by the State Department shows that U.S. arms transfers and defense trade hit a record $240 billion last year. U.S. President Joe Biden told the media bluntly that U.S. "aid" to other countries and regions supports American jobs through arms production. Is the U.S. profiteering from the conflict in Ukraine? Is peace then bad for business? What's the implication for China?

How will AI change our world? In the past week, one name has been on the lips of everyone: Sora, a text-to-video tool that generated the one-minute video of a woman walking down a night-time street in Tokyo. The images, unveiled by OpenAI, the San Francisco start-up which also launched ChatGPT at the end of 2022, sent instant shockwaves around the world. While the inception of Sora excites many, the question looms for many more: what kind of uncertainty will the technology bring to our future? What kind of actions is needed to keep Sora and its counterparts a force for good?

An annual survey released ahead of the Munich Security Conference seems to show a strong sense of anxiety among G7 citizens in contrast to their emerging country counterparts. What explains this divergence in security risks? And, Volkswagen cars were impounded at U.S. ports due to an electrical component allegedly being produced in Xinjiang, and thereby in violation of the U.S.' "forced labor prevention act". Why is the U.S. fast and furious in stopping imports from Xinjiang, and in vain?

For the Chinese people and people of Chinese descent, the Chinese New Year is about snow, ice, firecrackers, and big family meals around steaming hot dishes. In this special edition of The Point, ambassadors of three Caribbean countries share their perspectives on their traditional festivals and their China experiences. Spoiler alert: Their China connections run deep, although they are all incredibly young.

For the Chinese people and people of Chinese descent, the Chinese New Year is about snow, ice, firecrackers, and big family meals around steaming hot dishes. In this special edition of The Point, ambassadors of three Caribbean countries share their perspectives on their traditional festivals and their China experiences. Spoiler alert: Their China connections run deep, although they are all incredibly young.

Home, sweet home. With the Chinese New Year just around the corner, hundreds of millions of Chinese are on massive move again to join their families for celebrations. And, visitors to China are often surprised by its advanced cashless payment system. Two airports in Beijing are rolling out payment demonstration zones for those in need of help. How far can these zones help travelers in scanning their way through China?

U.S. spy chief CIA Director William Burns mentioned China at least seven times in a recent article published in Foreign Affairs, calling China's rise both a geopolitical challenge and a “big long-term threat”. Burns revealed that the CIA "has more than doubled the percentage of its overall budget focused on China over just the last two years" and a China mission center has been set up, making China the only country in the world with its own center under the CIA. How can China safeguard itself against what some perceive as America's "Orwellian surveillance"? What's the implication for the world?

Ping-Pong Diplomacy played a pivotal role in normalizing diplomatic relations between China and the United States. Now 45 years later, ties between the two countries have become one of the most important bilateral relationships in the world. Can we expect improvement to the relationship in this crucial election year in the United States? Is it still possible to manage differences?

During the summit between the presidents of China and the U.S. in San Francisco last November, both sides agreed to promote people-to-people exchanges. Chinese President Xi Jinping extended an invitation for 50,000 U.S. students to visit the country over the next five years. Since then, groups of U.S. students have made the trip. More Chinese students are also getting the opportunity to see America for themselves, including a group from Beijing Foreign Studies University. But some members of the delegation had to go through hours of interrogation at U.S. customs. This came after the Chinese Ambassador to the U.S. had protested over mistreatment of Chinese students with valid visas upon entry into the U.S. What has been the experience of the delegation from Beijing Foreign Studies University? What have they learned about the U.S. and bilateral ties?

The International Court of Justice, or the ICJ, which is the UN's highest court, has delivered an interim ruling last week on South Africa's case against Israel's offensive in Gaza. With an overwhelming majority, the court's 17-judge panel voted in favor of six emergency measures, ordering Israel to do everything in its power to prevent genocide in Gaza, among others. U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel and pointed out that the court did not support South Africa's request for an immediate ceasefire. In the global battle for hearts and minds on this issue, is the US-led West framing the ruling to suit their interests and narrative?

China and the Pacific Island nation of Nauru signed a joint communique on the resumption of diplomatic relations. Nauru's move reduces the number of so-called "diplomatic allies" of the Taiwan region to only a dozen. Including Nauru, 10 countries have cut formal relations with Taiwan over the past 8 years. The U.S. however, expressed isappointment over Nauru's choice. Why is that?

Have you heard of fur-skiing? What's special about skiing in Xinjiang, China? French photographer Nico de Rouge and Moroccan architect Hasnaa Rhazlaoui experienced both forms of skiing while making their five-part documentary "World's Ultimate Frontier." How fascinating is the oldest form of skiing on Earth? What enabled them to connect deeply with the locals? And what are their takeaways from the journey?

The Chinese New Year is around the corner, will we see more Latin American cities joining in the celebrations? As the Chinese Foreign Minister wraps up his visits to Brazil and Jamaica, let's look at how Latin American and Caribbean countries are looking east.

What's life like as an international influencer based in China? In the past few years, a host of international bloggers and vloggers have appeared on social media platforms in China and abroad to share their experiences and views about everything Chinese through pictures, articles and videos. They have been loud and clear in telling China stories through their perspective and they have attracted great attention. However, there's a rub. They're often subjected to smear campaigns which target either their reputation or even their character. As we enter a new year, how are these influencers planning to continue weaponizing truth about China to counter the misinformation or disinformation out there?

The Pacific island nation of Nauru cuts so-called "diplomatic ties" with China's Taiwan region and seeks to resume diplomatic ties with the People's Republic of China. Why has the U.S. called it disappointing? We will have two South Pacific guests to share their perspectives.

China strongly deplores and firmly opposes the U.S. State Department's comments on the election results in China's Taiwan Province. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement Sunday afternoon, calling the U.S. out for sending a gravely wrong signal to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces. The response came after the U.S. had congratulated the winners of Taiwan's election and expressed the wish to further the so-called "longstanding unofficial relationship" with the island. Meanwhile, the White House again reiterated it does not support "Taiwan independence". What kind of game is the U.S. playing? Why is China reacting so strongly toward the State Department's message?

The Taiwan regional leadership election will take place on Jan. 13th. According to senior administration officials, U.S. President Joe Biden plans to send an unofficial delegation to the island following the race. In response, China urges the U.S. to stop intervening in the elections in any form and stop sending wrong signals to separatist forces advocating "Taiwan independence." So what is happening on the ground?

A city known for its freezing winters has now become the hottest internet celebrity city in China. Harbin, capital of northeastern Heilongjiang Province, finds itself in overwhelming fame since mid-December last year and has become a top choice for tourists from around China. During the three-day New Year holiday, the city received over 3 million visitors, generating more than $800 million in revenue, exceeding pre-COVID levels. What can explain such a phenomenon? What does it say about the changes taking place in Chinese society? Are we going to witness more cities going viral in the future?

Iraq announces it wants U.S.-led coalition troops out of the country. This comes after U.S. military drones killed a leader of a paramilitary group affiliated with the Iraqi government. Since the Palestine-Israel conflict broke out last October, the U.S. claimed its forces in Iraq and neighboring Syria have come under more than 100 attacks by Iran-backed militants, and the latest drone strike was in response to a mortar attack against its embassy compound in Baghdad. Will the escalations lead to the end of U.S. military presence in the country? How may that affect the situation in the region?

Today, the term "artificial intelligence", or AI, is no longer a buzzword, but has increasingly become an integral part of our lives. How is that impacting our lives? As we enter 2024, let's examine what this year could mean for humanity. Is AI an inevitably superior alternative, or a double-edged sword that may deviate from its course if left unchecked? How can we break away from the control of algorithms?

After the three-year-long COVID 19 pandemic, the arrival of 2023 instilled great hope for rebuilding a world grounded in development, peace, and prosperity. However, 2023 has brought to light the challenges and risks embedded in the global landscape. In the face of this evolving reality, how can we navigate through this turbulent world?

As we wrap up 2023, let's take stock of the state of the world economy. Both the IMF and the World Bank are predicting global economic growth for the year to stand at 3%. That's well below the historical average of 3.8% achieved from 2000 to 2019. As for China, the economy grew by 5.2% for the first three quarters of the year. However, China is facing challenges including a complicated and uncertain external environment. How is all that impacting your life?

Forty-five years ago, China's paramount leader Deng Xiaoping led the country onto a historic journey after years of chaos. On December 18 of 1978, China's decision-makers gathered in Beijing for the 3rd plenary session of the 11th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, which set the country onto a new path. Have you been benefiting from China's changes, without knowing? Does it matter to you that the country continues its reform and opening-up?

The western media is rife with reports denigrating the Chinese economy. But in November, the International Monetary Fund upgraded China's real GDP growth from 5% to 5.4% for this year. It also predicted China's economy to be on track to meet its growth target. Meanwhile, the G7 economic block looks like it's in need of urgent attention if not action. The OECD estimates the block's quarter-on-quarter growth to be three fifth of a percent in Q3. Why are they not contributing more to global growth? Why are some in the Western media so fixated on China?

Elections for members of grassroot consultative organizations known as District Councils were held on December 10 in Hong Kong. Voters cast their ballots in the 7th District Council Ordinary Elections, for 88 seats in the District Council geographical constituency, and 176 seats in the District Committees constituency. These were the first elections after the relevant law was amended this past July to improve district governance. What exactly were these elections about? How were the candidates vetted?

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis called on the British Museum to return ancient Greek treasures, the Parthenon Sculptures, during an interview with the BBC while visiting the UK. Similar disputes over the restitution of looted artifacts by former colonizers or invaders to their countries of provenance have been going on for years. China has also been calling on the return of stolen artifacts from Western museums, but without much avail. What are the hurdles including legal ones in the process?

Over 70-thousand delegates from around the world gather in Dubai to tackle climate change. What is China doing in terms of curbing carbon intensity? Given the lifetime of CO2, that can last up to a few hundred years, who is the world’s accumulative largest emitter? And how can global collaboration make an impact on climate mitigation?

Former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, a world-renowned strategist and a good friend of Chinese people has passed away at the age of 100. Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence to U.S. President Joe Biden, saying Dr. Kissinger made historic contributions to the normalization of China-US relations and his efforts have not only benefited the two countries, but also changed the world. What made Dr. Kissinger the person he was? Can we benefit from more visionary figures like Kissinger in the future?

China announces trial visa-free entry for six countries in Europe and Asia. What are the reactions and what to expect next? And a proposal was made in Beijing to mark November 25 as "Olympic Culture Day" while people remember the birth of Pierre de Coubertin, known as father of the modern Olympic Movement. What significance could that have on today's world?

The first pause in the Gaza conflict begins at 7 am Friday, local time. Thirteen women and children are expected to be freed by Hamas that afternoon in exchange for Palestinians being held in Israeli jails. What are the BRICS emerging countries and their new fellow members saying about this issue? What role can BRICS play here? How much of a difference will it make to the situation on the ground?

It's been over a month since the latest round of violence began in the Middle East with the death toll mounting. Protests have been staged around the world calling for the freeing of the Palestinian people and sparing innocent lives. While many focus on the war, Jan Oberg, director of the Transnational Foundation for Peace and Future Research, believes it's also imperative for us to examine the more complex and challenging underlying conflict to this war.

In a recent letter to the 5th China-U.S. Sister Cities Conference, Chinese President Xi Jinping said these links have been instrumental in bringing together people at grassroots level. There are 284 pairs of sister provinces, states, and sister cities between China and the United States since diplomatic ties were established between the two countries in 1979. In this special edition of The Point, host Liu Xin visits Long Beach in Los Angeles, a sister city with Qingdao in east China. The cities have been paired since 1985. How much has Long Beach benefited from this relationship? How has that link been maintained, especially during the past few tumultuous years? What potential is there to further tap into?

A picture has gone viral in the Chinese social media where U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a senate hearing at the end of October was confronted with a sea of red hands up in the air in silent protest against the plan to channel more funding to support Israel and the on-going conflict between Israel and Hamas. Disrupted by the scene and shout of "Ceasefire Now", the hearing before the US Senate Appropriations Committee was forced to suspense several times. Why the silent protest? Did they manage to have their voices heard?

"You have been greatly missed", visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told the Chinese audience at a global import expo in Shanghai on Sunday. The sixth China International Import Expo is the first edition after China lifted COVID-related travel restrictions. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also paid a visit to Beijing and was received by Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday. Both sides agreed that China and Australia share extensive common interests, and that fostering relations serves both sides well. What has brought about these welcome changes? What lessons need to be kept in mind on both sides?

The Tokyo Electric Power Company, or TEPCO, has started the 3rd round of discharge of what they call treated water from the damaged Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant. The discharge of nearly 8,000 tons of contaminated water started last Thursday. Polls show Japanese people and those in affected regions are yet to be convinced of the reliability of the plan. How can TEPCO address its own trust deficit? What's the international community saying about this?

Anthony Albanese is expected to touch down in Beijing on Saturday, to visit China at the invitation of Chinese premier Li Qiang and also to attend the China International Import Expo in Shanghai during his trip in China from November 4th to 7th. This would make him the first Australian Prime Minister in seven years to visit China. What lessons has the past seven years taught us? How to avoid them in the future? How to pick up bilateral ties where we left off between the two countries?

After repeated failures to reach consensus at the United Nations Security Council, the UN General Assembly finally adopted by majority a non-binding resolution on Gaza on Friday, October 27. The resolution, tabled by Jordan on behalf of the Arab Group, calls for an "immediate, durable and sustained humanitarian truce" and demands that all parties immediately and fully comply with their obligations under international law. How will the situation develop in the days and weeks to come?

The Gaza conflict is being debated in the UN General Assembly this week. Why has it been so difficult to reach an international consensus? How to break the unending spiral of violence and hate?

Wars, energy shortages, economic slowdowns and a deepening of geopolitical discord... Can China and European countries work together in uncertain times like now? The two sides both have amazingly rich cultures, are each other's major trading partners, and above all, have no fundamental clashes of interests. Can China and European countries find win-win solutions amid the uncertainties?

What's the connection between Monkey King & the Belt and Road Initiative? Join us in this special edition of Headline Buster marking the 10th anniversary of the BRI as CGTN's Liu Xin unravels how some Western media try to derail the BRI through a geopolitical lens. She is also joined by a panel of experts to unpack how the BRI has made a difference and what kind of difference it will continue to make.

Israeli-Palestinian tensions have killed over 2,100 people, wounding many more. How will the conflict evolve? Where does China stand? And Chinese President Xi Jinping has met with a U.S. bipartisan congressional delegation led by Senate Majority Leader. Will the trip make a difference for the two countries and the wider world?

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen announced that she would launch an anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles. This decision comes after EU data indicated that China's share of the new energy car market in Europe has risen to 8% and could probably reach 15% by 2025. In what ways are Chinese-made EVs competitive? Has China "kept the price artificially low" by subsidizing car manufacturers? How will this anti-subsidy probe affect China-EU ties?

The 19th Asian Games is set to start in Hangzhou. CGTN host Liu Xin spoke with the presidents of two international sports federations. What are their expectations for the Hangzhou Asian Games? And how do they evaluate the development of China’s sports industry?

China and the Philippines established close ties through the maritime Silk Road back in the 15th century. Today, we're going to trace this early voyage route for economic cooperation, explore shared cultural memories, and find out how the maritime Silk Road carries memories of the two countries through generations. How does it feel to be an inheritor of those precious memories?

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Summit taking place in New York marks the half-way point to the deadline set for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals. China is working towards sustainable development in its own way through accelerating the building of a green and low-carbon economy. Not only has China endeavored to expand green development domestically, but also overseas through the Belt and Road Initiative. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. How do the SDGs resonate with China's green BRI?

More than 3,000 projects, 50-billion-dollar investment, and over 400,000 local jobs - these are some numbers that can describe China's Belt and Road Initiative ten years on. According to the World Bank, by 2030, if fully implemented, BRI's transport infrastructure is projected to lift 7.6 million people out of extreme poverty and 32 million from moderate poverty. However, the journey has not been an easy one.

On August 29, China's tech giant Huawei released its latest 5G smartphone Mate 60 Pro without advance publicity and has seen huge success. The device is powered by a Chinese made cutting-edge 7 nano-meter chip called Kirin 9000s, despite strict U.S. export controls on advanced semiconductors to China. It can also be used as a satellite phone. The company has long been scrutinized for posing a threat to "U.S. national security" and in 2019, it was put on the U.S. entity's list, preventing U.S. companies from doing business with Huawei. This was a huge setback for the company, but four years later, Huawei seems to have not only survived but thrived. How did the company make it? How far is China from becoming totally self-sufficient in high-end semiconductors?

On September 9th and 10th, G20 leaders gathered in New Delhi, India for this year's summit under the theme "One Earth, One Family, One Future". G20 Presidency India identified six priorities including sustainable development, food and energy security, and reforms of development financing. What consensus has been reached that may relieve pressure on cost of living and boost global economic recovery? What changes will the meeting bring about on climate change and global governance?

With ten countries and over 650 million people, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, is the world's 5th largest economic bloc. Leaders from 22 countries and 9 international organizations are attending the 43rd ASEAN Summit, making it the largest of its kind ever. How can regional countries work together to boost global economic recovery?

On August 16th, the British Museum launched an independent security review due to the discovery of missing, stolen, and damaged artifacts, estimated to be around 2,000 items. This revelation has sparked global calls, particularly from China, Nigeria, and Greece, for the return of looted items. The British Museum has historically refused such requests, citing better protection. However, the recent security breach has raised questions about repatriating these cultural treasures. How long will it take for items taken by force or deceit from other countries to finally come home?

China has been Germany's largest trading partner for 7 consecutive years. And Germany is China's largest trading partner in Europe. But talk of de-risking has been on the rise in Germany recently. Last month, Berlin released its first "China Strategy", defining China as "simultaneously a partner, competitor and systemic rival". It has also been reported that Berlin is considering tightening scrutiny against Chinese investment in a bid to "enhance economic security". What does the German business community here in China think of the situation?

The 15th BRICS Summit has just concluded. Critics and a chorus of bleak voices are prophesying a gloomy future, and the West asks, "What's the point of BRICS?" Is BRICS a "motley crew", as described by some western media, with little in common? Or is BRICS, by expanding with more countries, pointing the way to a new kind of grouping that breaks away from the "small circle" mindset of the West?

Sudden interest in the BRICS arose in the West as leaders of one third of the world's economy meet in person in South Africa. Will the group's impact be felt in a world dominated by the West? Why are more countries lining up to join the BRICS? And, China voices strong concern as Japan pushes through with its plan to dump over a million tons of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the Pacific. What's at stake here?

While the mainland has repeatedly stressed that Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Straits are one family bound by blood, authorities on the island have rejected the consensus that both sides belong to one country. The U.S., for its own selfish interests, keeps interfering on the issue and needs an obedient servant in control of the island. In this special edition of The Point, Liu Xin shares highlights from her interviews with prominent figures on the Taiwan island.

The deputy leader of China's Taiwan region, Lai Ching-te, passed through the U.S. for so-called "stopovers," prompting angry protests from local Chinese. Why did he insist on setting foot in the U.S. now? And why did the U.S. allow such tricks by Taiwan authorities, knowing how sensitive the issue is for Beijing?

China's National Bureau of Statistics says main indexes on China's economic performance in July, including Consumer Price Index, imports and exports, investment in fixed assets, and industrial production saw moderate growth. Fu Linghui, spokesperson of the National Bureau of Statistics and Director General of its Department of Comprehensive Statistics, explained that monthly slowdown in China's economic growth is considered a normal fluctuation. What are some internal and external factors that are affecting China's economic performance?

A tense, hours-long standoff between China and the Philippines unfolded on August 5 near Ren'ai Jiao, a reef in the South China Sea. The China Coast Guard blocked two Philippine navy vessels from intruding into the adjacent waters of Ren'ai Jiao. The Philippine ships were delivering construction materials to a broken military vessel that has been grounded on the reef since 1999. The standoff sparked immediate criticism from the Philippines and the U.S, which China promptly rejected. How did a rusty warship get grounded on the reef in the first place? What exactly happened during the standoff? And what’s the business of the United States in this matter?

Representatives from over 40 countries and international organizations have attended a two-day meeting hosted by Saudi Arabia on the conflict in Ukraine. The meeting has been seen as the latest effort by Ukraine to seek international support for the ten-point peace formula it laid out last December. Why has Saudi Arabia hosted this meeting? Who were the attendees and what have been accomplished?

Beijing has experienced the heaviest rainfall since records began 140 years ago. The city issued the highest warning for floods on Monday and lifted the red alert on Wednesday as the rain subsided. The floods came on the heels of extreme heatwaves, which hit the Chinese capital earlier this year. What is causing these unprecedented weather events? What can be done about it? And is there more to come before it gets better?

Senior Biden administration officials have been busy landing in Saudi Arabia to, according to reports, work on a "big" Saudi-Israel deal while curtailing Saudi-China relations. Is the Biden administration racing to make a splash in the Middle East before the start of the reelection campaign? Is this part of an effort to "curtail Saudi-China relations"? How realistic is such a deal at this moment?

The U.S. is officially back to UNESCO, the United Nations agency on educational, scientific and cultural affairs, after a five-year absence. The Biden administration proposed in June to rejoin UNESCO and committed to paying 619 million USD in arrears over the coming years in installments. A vote was held late June in the Paris headquarters of the agency on the matter, during which 132 states voted in favor and 10 states, including China, Russia, and Iran, voted against. What does this re-entry mean for the world? Why did the 10 countries vote "no"?

In this episode of the Headline Buster, we delve into China's robust economic performance in the first half of 2023, and examine how Western media portrays this success. Is China's economy really struggling, or has the media been struggling to craft a narrative? How will China navigate its road to a speedy recovery?

On July 6, a ceremony was held in Beijing to mark the 70th anniversary of what's known as the "Icebreaking Mission" by a group of British business people to China. In July of 1953, Jack Perry led 15 representatives from British companies, on the first ever such trip by a major Western country to the People's Republic of China after it was founded in 1949. The delegation signed deals worth 30 million pounds with China. What's the lasting impact of this "Icebreaking Mission"? What's the current status of China-UK relations? Do we need more such missions? In this special edition of The Point, CGTN host Liu Xin sits down with Jack Perry's son, Stephen Perry, to explore more.

American business tycoons including Bill Gates, Tim Cook, and Elon Musk have lined up to visit China this year for whom China rolled out the red carpets. However, political dialogue between the two sides got off to a slow start with the postponement of U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit over the so-called "spy balloon" incident. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin didn't even get an appointment with his Chinese counterpart during his trip to Asia. The awkwardness was only slightly lifted when Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen made it here in the Chinese capital in early July. Some media have dubbed the current picture as "Hot economics and cold politics". Is that an accurate description? Can we compartmentalize the two tracks, for long?

Foreign Ministers from Southeast Asian nations, or ASEAN, have gathered in Jakarta, Indonesia, to discuss regional affairs. Top diplomats from China, the U.S., Russia, and other regional countries also participated. The theme for the meetings is ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth. What have been the key messages and takeaways?

Japan is slated to begin releasing nuclear-contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant as early as August amid ongoing controversy. While the International Atomic Energy Agency claims the approach and activities to discharge the water are "consistent with international safety standards," concerns over long-term effects on health, environment and biodiversity persist. Is the discharge plan a responsible solution or a selfish reckless gamble? What can neighboring countries and pacific island nations do to put reason and science above politics and economics?

U.S. Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen saw the rainbow across the Beijing sky when she landed in the Chinese capital on July 6th for her four-day visit. This was her first trip as treasury chief to China. She is also the second highest official of Biden's administration to come to China, after Secretary of State Antony Blinken did last month. How to evaluate Yellen's visit? How will her visit affect China-U.S. ties? Will we be able to witness the world's most important bilateral relationship getting a "surer footing" to borrow Yellen's own words?

A massive amount of water has been used to cool the damaged reactors after a devastating earthquake wreaked havoc on 3 nuclear reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan in March 2011. In April of 2021, Japan announced it would gradually release the water into the Pacific Ocean after treatment, citing leakage risks and a lack of storage space. Earlier this month, the International Atomic Energy Agency, the international nuclear watchdog, released a safety review report, claiming that the Japanese plan consistent with relevant international safety standards. It also noted that the assessment was not an endorsement. How authoritative is this report, which came out two years after Japan announced the decision? How have the media been covering the story so far? When politics is involved, can the voice of reason prevail?

A new member for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO, and more in the pipeline! During the latest meeting of the Council of Heads of State, the SCO's top decision-making body, Iran officially became its ninth member state and official procedure has been launched to add Belarus as the next in line. With the addition of Iran, SCO members now cover 60% of the Eurasian landmass, over 40% of the world's total population, and 30% of world GDP. What can the new members bring to the group and vice versa? And how are regional countries reacting to the proposals China is making?

The Law on Foreign Relations of the People's Republic of China came into effect on July 1, after being approved by the country's top legislature. The law, containing 45 articles in six chapters in total, is the first fundamental and comprehensive law governing the conduct of foreign relations in China's history. What exactly is this law about? How will it impact China's foreign affairs? And how may it affect other countries, especially major Western powers that have increasingly antagonized China?

July 1st marks the 26th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China. And it also marks one year since Chief Executive John Lee assumed office. What are locals celebrating during this year's anniversary? What challenges remain? Following the chaos and damage sustained in 2019 and the pandemic after that, has the city strengthened its footing as a free and competitive economy and a major international financial center?

Chinese premier Li Qiang made his first visit abroad since taking office in March. He held talks with German and French leaders as well as attended gatherings for business leaders. What messages did the Chinese premier send, integrating his personal experiences and with humor? How have the messages been received by his European hosts and the general public? What do all these have to do with you and me and people in other parts of Europe and the world?

Having to deal with the negative impact of its China policy, the US has recently expressed its intention to increase high-level contacts. On June 18th and 19th, the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Beijing for talks on managing tensions in the highest-level U.S. visit since President Joe Biden took office. And during the meeting, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged actions to stabilize and improve China-US relations.

Qinghai in northwestern China is known as the water tower of China, as it's the origin of the country's three great rivers, the Yellow River, the Yangtze River, and the Lancang River. What are some recent measures that have been taken to make sure that people living in the lower reaches of these rivers and our future generations can continue to drink unpolluted water?

Qinghai province in northwestern China is a treasure trove of ecological resources. It has seen tremendous environmental improvements in the past few decades. What has been done to preserve nature here and how have international organizations been collaborating with China on environmental issues?

As an American, Bill Porter discovered his spiritual haven in Chinese literature, especially poetry. Having translated over 2000 Chinese poems, he is the first American to publish an English version of a revered Chinese poetry anthology in the U.S., releasing the tome in 2003. Approaching his 80th year in 2023, Bill's enduring connection with China persists as he plans further journeys to explore the footsteps of his beloved poets.

Two and a half months after switching diplomatic ties from Taiwan to Beijing, Honduran President Xiomara Castro embarks on an official visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. What does President Castro expect to accomplish by visiting China so soon after the switching of diplomatic ties to Beijing? What does it mean for the Latin American country, China and the province of Taiwan? What message is the U.S. likely to take away from the trip, as Central American nations ditch formal ties with the island province of Taiwan one after another?

Latest data show China’s surveyed urban unemployment rate has climbed to 20.4% in April for young people aged between 16 and 24. It has drawn attention to China's efforts to spur economic recovery after three years of disruptions related to COVID-19. How is the situation of youth employment in China? And what measures are being taken to address the issue?

The annual Shangri-La security dialogue has concluded. This year's security dialogue took place against heightened worries regarding possible collisions between the two militaries in the airspace over the South China Sea and in the waters of the Taiwan Strait. What security concepts have the two countries laid out for the region? How different are they? And what contradictions does China see in the U.S. strategy for the region?

The U.S. claims China rejected its proposal for a defense chiefs' meeting. What is really going on? What are China's concerns? What can be done to keep the lines open for official dialogue?

The New Development Bank, or NDB, was established by five BRICS countries in 2015 to fund global development cooperation. During the 8 years since its founding, the bank has approved a total of 98 projects on infrastructure and sustainable development all over the world. In April this year, the bank drew wide attention when former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff took over the rein as president. Why does the world need the New Development Bank? What impact has the bank had on global development cooperation? And why does Dilma Rousseff believe in the future of the bank despite skepticisms in the West about BRICS and related institutions?

Decoupling with China is "self-destructive". So says Helga Zepp-LaRouche, founder and chairperson of the German think tank, the Schiller Institute. She calls the idea a geopolitical plot that amounts to economic suicide for Germany, with the European Union and the world economy suffering the consequences. If decoupling from China would lead to further damage, what are her thoughts on the so-called alternative approach of "de-risking" with China? And as the new silk-road lady, how does she rate the BRI, ten years on? Has it proven to be the new world-land bridge, like the ancient ones?

As people of Xizang mark the 72nd anniversary of the peaceful liberation of the region in Southwest China, CGTN host Liu Xin shares her observation from a recent trip to Xizang. She addresses rhetoric and narratives aimed at diminishing China's work and progress in promoting development and religious freedom in the region.

How does it feel to be in the barbecue capital of China? Is China's high-speed rail really fast and comfortable? How much do young Chinese care about green development? These are the questions that have brought a former excutive director of the UN Environment programme on a month long visit to China. Eric Solheim had visited China before and is known to be a friend of the country in his native Europe, despite much political pressure. Now after a few years of Covid disruptions, he is among the first in the queue to revisit the country. What has he discovered this time?

Turkiye is gripped in a presidential race that's gone into the second round. Among the host of factors that have contributed to the situation, the economy figures heavily. Given the more difficult relations between Erdogan and the West, how are economic woes shaping the political landscape? Has President Erdogan's recipe to fight inflation with lowering interest rate stopped to work? How tough will the job be for whoever to emerge from the second round?

It has been a busy season of diplomatic engagements between Europe and China. It's almost hard to keep track of the number of official visits between the two sides since the end of last year. Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang's visit was the most recent one. From May 8 to 12, he visited Germany, France, and Norway, during which he proposed three principles for maintaining stable relations. What exactly are these principles? What has been achieved from these diplomatic engagements? And what do they have to do with us?

What is the true African story? And how can Africans tell their own stories better? In this special edition of the Point, CGTN anchor Liu Xin sits down with Kwesi Pratt, Founder of Pan Africa Television, to find out his answers to these important questions.

What happens when one dares to challenge the dominant narratives against China on international media? Maureen Huebel, an independent Australian researcher, knows it well. She has been challenging the relevant authorities in her country in their allegations of human rights abuses in Xinjiang, China, or that there is a growing threat of aggression from China. But she's gotten no answers. What happened?

After more than 10 days of violence and chaos that have ravaged Sudan and claimed over 400 lives, the world needs an all-out effort for peace. U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres said this to the U.N. Security Council. On April 20th, Antonio Guterres attended a virtual meeting on Sudan, bringing together the African Union chairperson, the secretary general of the Arab League and others to discuss ways of ending the violence. How to restore some semblance of normality in the country? Are neighboring countries and the whole region at risk?

India's population will surpass that of China's in 2023, according to the UN estimates published in April. The Wall Street Journal sees India as the next "world factory" and discusses how the West can tap into the Indian market. Can India replace China as the “world factory”? And does the West regard these countries as mere tools for its own interest?

Juncao is a highly resilient and ecologically friendly crop that can be used to cultivate mushrooms and feed animals. Since juncao was introduced as part of China's south cooperation more than two decades ago, it has helped to effectively alleviate poverty and preserve the environment in over a hundred countries where the grass is farmed. It has been more than 70 years since China started its foreign aid and international development corporation. There have been great achievements, but also loud criticisms. So how does China's international aid differ from conventional ones? What success stories and lessons can we learn? And why do western media hype Chinese projects as debt traps?

China will soon lose its status as the world's most populous nation. According to UN population projections, India will overtake China in a couple of months in population. Is this shift in the global "center of gravity" a cause for concern? How will that impact China's economy and global growth? Also, will India replace China as the new "world factory" as some western media have suggested?

Global warming is a growing threat that we must reckon with, and dealing with climate change starts with de-carbonization. The renewable energy transition is an ongoing revolution that could determine humanity's survival in the 21st century. How do we ensure a safe transition to renewable energy? How are China and the international community doing in this area? What are the hurdles in the process, and how does the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict impact Europe's energy transition?

China urges both sides in Sudan's armed conflict to cease fire as soon as possible and to avoid further escalation. After fighting broke out in Sudan over the weekend, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on all parties to strengthen dialogue and jointly advance the political transition process. The United Nations, the Arab League, and the U.S. have also appealed for an immediate ceasefire. What led to the fierce clashes? Will the turmoil spill across borders and destabilize the fragile region? And how can the international community support efforts to address the crisis?

Canadian Daniel Bell was educated in Canada and the UK before moving to China 20 years ago. After teaching for a few years, he went on to become the first foreign dean of the School of Political Science and Public Administration at Shandong University from 2017 to 2022. What's unusual about this is that Shandong was the birth place of the greatest Chinese philosophers including Confucius and Mencius. What was it like to be the dean of political philosophy in the home land of Confucianism? What insights can he share about China’s academia and politics?